Dining in magical London: The Leaky Cauldron’s menu

Dining in magical London: The Leaky Cauldron’s menu

Fans of the “Harry Potter” novel and film series can experience the world of the story with all five of their senses. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a Universal Studio’s theme park, will be opening the doors to the Leaky Cauldron on July 8, 2014. The pub is a regular London hangout for Harry and the gang whenever they pass through Diagon Alley. Theme park visitors will have a change to stop by the Leaky Cauldron to not only enjoy the magical view, but dine on traditional English pub food.

The Cauldron’s menu
Universal Studios just released the restaurant’s menu, which includes many English classics. For instance, diners will be able to sample cottage pie, fish and chips, and bangers and mash. Of course, they’ll be able to wash it all down with fictional favorites such as Butterbeer, Pumpkin Juice and a host of ales, Wizards Brew and Dragon Scales among them. Curious about what goes into each dish? As a student of online culinary courses, you’ll likely be able to whip up a magical meal on your own.

Cottage pie
This dish is similar to a shepherd’s pie, in that it’s a mix of meat, vegetables and gravy topped with mashed potatoes. However, cottage pie uses minced beef instead of lamb. The gravy is made with onions, garlic, thyme, tomato, tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce and Guinness. You’ll need to cook the meat, make the gravy and saute the vegetables on the stove. Then combine all the ingredients. Top the dish with mashed potatoes and pop it in the oven until golden brown.

Bangers and mash
This dish is a composition of sausage and mashed potatoes. You can choose whatever meat you want for the sausage, though pork is a common option. Serve two large sausages atop a pile of mashed potatoes. Finally, smother the entire dish with gravy. You may also serve vegetables on the side.

Fish and chips
A well-known classic, fish and chips features battered and fried fish (typically cod) served with french fries. Most cooks make fish and chips using a beer batter, which includes flour, salt and a light beer, such as a pale ale. To make the fish, dredge it in flour, shaking off any excess particles. Then dip it in the batter and lay it in hot oil. Serve your food with a good malt vinegar.

If you make any of these traditional dishes, consider serving them with a beer, the way you might dine at the Leaky Cauldron.